The white butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea ‘Alba’) is a captivating flowering vine known for its delicate beauty and ease of cultivation. This plant offers a unique aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for gardeners seeking to add elegance to their landscapes.
Understanding White Butterfly Pea
The white butterfly pea, Clitoria ternatea ‘Alba’, is a cultivar of the butterfly pea plant, also known as white Asian pigeonwings. This herbaceous perennial vine belongs to the Fabaceae (pea or legume) family.
Unlike the blue Clitoria ternatea, the ‘Alba’ variety has pure white, pea-shaped blooms, typically 4 cm by 3 cm, appearing singly or in pairs. It is a slender climbing legume with pinnate leaves, each composed of five to seven elliptic leaflets.
Originating from tropical Asia and Africa, it is now pantropical. Its Fabaceae classification highlights nitrogen-fixing capabilities, which can enrich soil quality.
Growing White Butterfly Pea
White butterfly pea flourishes in full sun to partial shade, ideally requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering. It thrives best in average temperatures ranging from 19 to 28°C. While perennial in warmer regions (USDA Zones 11-12), it can be grown as an annual in cooler climates where temperatures consistently drop below 15°C or experience frost.
Well-draining, loamy soil is preferred, but the white butterfly pea adapts to a wide range of soil types, including sandy and heavy clay, if drainage is adequate. A neutral to slightly acidic or alkaline soil pH is generally suitable. Consistent watering is beneficial, especially during dry periods, but the plant demonstrates good drought tolerance once established. Avoid waterlogging, as this can be detrimental to root health.
Propagation is typically from seeds, which benefit from scarification to improve germination. Soaking seeds overnight in warm water before planting aids germination. Seeds can be sown directly into the soil about three times their diameter deep, in spring, summer, or autumn, or indoors year-round.
As a vigorous climber, white butterfly pea requires support structures like trellises, fences, or pergolas for its upward growth, though it can also be used as a groundcover. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more prolific flowering. Fertilizing after pruning with a balanced fertilizer supports new growth and bloom production.
The plant is generally robust, but gardeners should monitor for common pests like spider mites and whiteflies, and potential issues such as anthracnose or bacterial soft rot. Organic solutions, such as insecticidal soaps, are effective for management.
Uses of White Butterfly Pea
The white butterfly pea offers diverse applications. Its lush foliage and pure white flowers make it an attractive addition to gardens, serving as a climber on trellises, arbors, or fences. It can also function as a groundcover or be grown in containers, adding elegance to various designs. The profusion of white blooms throughout warmer months enhances its aesthetic value.
While the blue variety is known for its color-changing properties, the white butterfly pea’s edible flowers can be incorporated into food and beverages. They can be used as a garnish in salads, added to teas for a mild, earthy flavor, or in other dishes where a subtle floral note and visual appeal are desired without altering color. The fresh flowers have a very mild scent and a slightly sweet taste.
Historically, Clitoria ternatea, including white-flowered varieties, has been utilized in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda for memory enhancement and tranquilizing effects. While these traditional uses exist, specific health claims should not be made, and expert consultation is advised for medicinal use. The plant’s roots, seeds, flowers, and leaves have all been part of these practices.